Plea for calm as England take on Wales in cup

Hospitals throughout Lancashire are urging people to drink and behave responsibly during Euro 2016, and be mindful that A&E is for serious and life threatening emergencies only.
Blackpool Victoria Hospitals A&E departmentBlackpool Victoria Hospitals A&E department
Blackpool Victoria Hospitals A&E department

Domestic abuse, alcohol-related violent crime, and drink/drug driving all increase during major football tournaments, which mean more people than usual attend A&E.

England play Wales in the tournament tomorrow.

The number of patients attending emergency departments across the country has been rising steadily in recent years and NHS trusts throughout Lancashire, which have seen more people in their A&E departments in the first few months of this year than ever before, are currently experiencing increased pressure.

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The A&E at Blackpool Victoria Hospital is also experiencing high demand and a recent survey found more than 50 per cent of those attending could have avoided the A&E by attending the local walk-in centres or even going to their pharmacist for advice first.

Those with conditions and injuries not deemed serious or life-threatening should call the NHS 111 helpline, which is available 24 hours a day, or visit an out-of-hours GP or the walk-in centre in Whitegate Drive.

Chief Inspector Gary Crowe, from Lancashire Police, said: “In previous years we have seen the combination of expectations, emotions, warm weather and alcohol consumption result in increased demand on all of the emergency services, often diverting care needed by the most vulnerable in our communities.

“Take responsibility of yourselves and don’t become a drain on resources.”